Why Paulinho’s Copa do Brasil absence is no concern for Palmeiras | OneFootball

Palmeiras left Paulinho out of Wednesday’s 4-1 Copa do Brasil win at Jacuipense. According to Globo.com, the omission was planned load management rather than a setback.

The forward had featured in each of the previous three games after his reintegration following 302 days out. He came on from the 29th minute of the second half against Santos, the 43rd in Peru versus Sporting Cristal, and the 37th against Remo.

It was established on his return that call-ups would not be automatic and would depend on how he tolerates the workload and minutes. May is being used to help him regain rhythm.

The club are also looking to the World Cup pause so he can be fully ready in the second half of the year. For now, load control remains the plan.

He has already reached match-level intensity in training, but there are still limits on volume and time. Each step is reviewed by the health and performance department to monitor his response, and the signs so far are positive.

Palmeiras do not intend to rush stages before the World Cup break, which could mean resting him from games or on-field sessions when necessary. He now has a free week to prepare for Saturday’s Brasileirão meeting with Cruzeiro at Arena Crefisa Barueri.

Source: Globo.com